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How To Drill Out A Lock On A Safe | 6 Easy Steps

6 Steps To Know How To Drill Out A Lock On A Safe

It is the most frustrating moment if you get stuck on the wrong side of a locked door, drawer or cabinet. If you have a lock problem, you may want to destroy the door to get rid of the problem.

The best way to drill out a lock on a safe is to use a power drill with a 1/2-inch drill bit. Drill through the center of the lock, being careful not to damage the safe.

However, you will be happy to know that it is possible to drill through many locks, saving your glass, door, or cabinet. Through a short and simple walkthrough, you can break the lock and make yourself free.

If you need some advice on what you should do when you are locked out then you have to read the entire article on how to drill out a lock on a safe.  Here we have explained the drilling out process in just 6 easy steps. 

Things Need To Consider Before Drilling Out A Lock

How To Drill Out A Lock

Picking The Lock

If you are not sure about the type of lock you are dealing with, then raking is the best way to start picking a lock. If you cannot feel the inner workings of the lock, try a pick gun. It might save you some time.

Bumping The Lock

Certain types of locks can effectively work with bumping. Bumping the lock was developed back in the ‘70s as a way of making it easy for locksmiths to disassemble locks. All you need to do is insert a bump key two-thirds into the lock and by tapping with a hammer in the correct place on the key, the lock chamber can pop out. 

Using Replacement Lock

When you drill the lock, make sure that you have a replacement lock to slot straight in.

Get The Owner’s Permission Before Drilling

Getting the owner’s agreement is vital because when you drill the lock it will be destroyed. Make them clear that you have tried every other means necessary. 

How To Drill Out A Lock On A Safe | 6 Easy Steps

If all of the attempts have been failing, then you need to drill out the lock on a safe. To drill out the lock you need to follow some easy steps to complete the task successfully. 

Things You Need

You do not need precision tools to drill a lock, but it does require a well-maintained drill and various drill bit sizes.

  • A variable-speed power drill 
  • Grab a selection of high-speed steel (HSS) drill bits. Start with a ⅛-inch bit for the initial hole and a ¼-inch to step it up
  • A hole punch for the bit 
  • A hammer 
  • A flat-headed screwdriver 
  • A plastic sheet 

Instructions

Let’s jump into the instruction step-by-step process and complete the task!

Step 1: Use A Hammer

First, you need to place the punch between the outer and inner lock. It is sometimes called the shear line. This height is accurate to drill into the tumblers. Now take a hammer and make two or three firm taps on the end of the punch until you see any visible indentation.

Step 2: Start Drilling

Use the 1/8-inch drill bit and drill a hole through the lock cylinder. This drilling process destroys the pins inside the lock and allows you to force it open. Most of the locks come with five tumbler pins and some have come with six or more. When you hit on the pin, it increases the resistance of the drill. 

Step 3: Apply Steady Pressure

Whenever you drill the line, apply steady pressure and make sure that the drill is kept level at all times. you cannot damage the lock and you have to do the task slowly otherwise there is a high chance of damaging the lock. You need to get an even and accurate job. 

Step 4: Switch To A Slightly Larger Bit

Once you create the hole with your drill bit now you need to switch to a ¼-inch bit or any size that you think best fits. This process breaks up the pins and ensures the lock is easier to open. 

Step 5: Insert The Screwdriver

Insert the blade of a flat-headed screwdriver into the lock head. You need to turn the locking mechanism in the same direction as you would with a key. If you can successfully drill, the lock will turn and you will gain entry to the previously locked door. If the lock still will not turn, you may need to destroy the entire lock cylinder.

Step 6: Destroy The Lock Mechanism

Now you need to drill through the entire assembly using a ¾-inch drill bit. A hole saw or a specialist tubular lock bit can be used to open the lock. After destroying the lock mechanism, your lock will be open. 

Final Verdict

Do not panic if you lock yourself on the wrong side of your door or cabinet. By following the steps of how to drill out a lock on a safe, you can make yourself free. If you applied all the processes that you can and give a double check, then apply the process to drill out a lock.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Drill Out A Lock?

It is possible to drill out a lock, but it is not easy and it can be very time-consuming.

How Do You Remove A Lock With A Drill?

The easiest way to remove a lock with a drill is to use a drill bit that is the same size as the lock’s keyhole. Drill into the keyhole until the bit breaks through the other side of the lock. Then, use a screwdriver to twist the lock’s cylinder until it comes out of the door.

What Kind Of Drill Bit Do I Use To Drill Out A Lock?

There is no universal drill bit that will work to drill out every type of lock. However, there are a few types of drill bits that are commonly used to drill out locks. These include diamond-point drill bits, tungsten-steel drill bits, and carbide-tipped drill bits.

How Do You Remove A Lock If You Lost The Key?

You can try to pick the lock. If that doesn’t work, you can try to cut the lock off.

How To Drill Out A Barrel Lock?

There are a few tips that can help make the process easier.

First, use a drill bit that is the same size or slightly smaller than the barrel lock. If the drill bit is too large, it will be difficult to control and could damage the lock or the surrounding materials.

Next, use a slow and steady speed when drilling. This will help prevent the drill bit from slipping and damaging the lock or the surrounding materials.

Finally, use a lubricant to help keep the drill bit cool and to reduce friction. This will help prolong the life of the drill bit and minimize damage to the barrel lock.

How To Drill Out A Bullet Lock?

Some possible methods include using a hand drill, an electric drill, or a drill press. Another option is to use a hacksaw to cut the lock in half.

How To Drill Out A Master Lock?

Master locks can be drilled out with a standard drill bit. First, insert the drill bit into the keyhole and wedge it into place. Use a hammer to tap the bit until it begins to cut into the lock. Drill in a circular motion until the lock is completely drilled out.

How To Drill Out A Lock On A Toolbox?

It depends on the type of lock on the toolbox. Some locks can be drilled out with a standard drill bit, while others may require a special drill bit or even a saw. It is recommended that you consult with a locksmith or hardware store before attempting to drill out a lock on a toolbox.

How To Drill Out A Safe Lock?

Some possible methods include using a drill bit the same size as the safe’s locking mechanism, using a smaller drill bit and gradually increasing the size until the lock is drilled out or using a drill and a hammer to break the lock open.

How To Drill Out A Cam Lock?

The first step is to use a drill bit to drill out the center of the cam lock. Once the center is drilled out, use a larger bit to drill out the rest of the cam lock. Finally, use a file to smooth out the edges of the cam lock.